Antigone

Definition

Antigone is a tragedy by Sophocles that tells the story of a young woman who defies the king's orders to honor her deceased brother with a proper burial. This play highlights key themes such as individual morality versus state law, the consequences of hubris, and the struggle against fate, all central to the tragic hero's journey and the broader context of ancient Greek theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antigone is part of the Theban cycle, which includes related stories about the city of Thebes and its royal family.
2. Sophocles wrote Antigone around 441 BC, making it one of the earliest surviving examples of Greek tragedy.
3. The character of Antigone embodies the struggle between personal ethics and civic duty, representing resistance against tyranny.
4. Antigone's determination to bury her brother Polynices despite King Creon's decree reflects her commitment to family loyalty and divine law.
5. The play ultimately portrays the tragic consequences of conflict between Antigone's values and Creon's rigid adherence to state laws.

Review Questions

• How does Antigone exemplify the characteristics of a tragic hero within the context of Greek tragedy?
  • Antigone fits the mold of a tragic hero as she possesses noble qualities and faces dire consequences for her actions. Her moral conviction to bury her brother Polynices, despite knowing that it defies King Creon's edict, showcases her bravery and commitment to familial loyalty. However, her determination also leads to her downfall, fulfilling the tragic arc where her virtues become the source of her suffering.
• In what ways does Antigone challenge traditional gender roles in ancient Greece through her actions and decisions?
  • Antigone challenges gender roles by taking bold actions that are traditionally reserved for men in ancient Greek society. Instead of adhering to passive roles expected of women, she boldly confronts King Creon and asserts her will to honor her brother. This defiance not only demonstrates her strength but also critiques societal norms regarding femininity and obedience, making her a powerful figure in Greek literature.
• Evaluate the role of fate versus free will in Antigone and how it influences the characters' decisions and ultimate outcomes.
  • In Antigone, fate plays a critical role in shaping the characters' lives, but free will is equally significant in their choices. Antigone believes she is acting in accordance with divine laws, showcasing her sense of agency as she chooses to defy Creon's orders. However, both Antigone and Creon ultimately face dire consequences for their choices, suggesting that while individuals can exercise free will, they are still bound by a larger fate that leads to tragedy. This interplay highlights the complex relationship between destiny and personal choice in Greek thought.

Related terms

Tragic Hero: A tragic hero is a protagonist who experiences a downfall due to a personal flaw or fate, often invoking sympathy from the audience.

Hubris: Hubris refers to excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to the protagonist's downfall in Greek tragedies.

Theban Plays: The Theban plays are a trilogy by Sophocles that includes Antigone, Oedipus Rex, and Oedipus at Colonus, exploring themes of fate, family, and morality.